‘Consummate director’ dies
Denham Shale, a former president of the Institute of Directors who recently chaired Dunedin City Holdings, has died suddenly in Auckland.
The 76-year-old previously chaired leading law firm Kensington Swan, and was still a director of NZX-listed OceanaGold Corporation. In 2014 Shale was named by the Institute of Directors as a distinguished fellow.
‘‘His style of direction and chairmanship is consistently ‘Denham’ – wise, kindly, astute, calm, collegial, courteous,’’ Warren Dalzell, who served on the institute’s national council under Shale, said at the time.
‘‘His ability to find consensus, to sum up, and to achieve pragmatic resolution typify his debate management.
‘‘He projects a relaxed ‘silver fox’ demeanour, but things get accomplished on his watch.’’
A death notice published yesterday described Shale as the ‘‘dearly beloved husband and best friend for 51 years’’ to Gillian. He had three children and three grandchildren, notice said.
‘‘We will love you with all our hearts and will miss you every day. See you at North End.’’
Jim Askew, chairman of OceanaGold, said Shale was ‘‘an archetype gentleman’’ whose contribution to the company would be sorely missed.
‘‘Denham was one of the most consummate company directors I’ve ever had the good fortune to work with.
‘‘He never shirked the challenges which inevitably occur in public life, drew great joy from the wonderful community development and environmental successes of OceanaGold and was a constant strength to all who had the privilege to serve with him. I will miss him very much.’’
Shale served on the boards of Les Mills, Zespri, South Canterbury Finance and Turners Group, as well as the Mercy Hospice Auckland Foundation and Piha Surf Life Saving Club boards. the